Signing Deeds & Contracts - Formalities for the Execution of Documents

A contract is only as enforceable as the way it is signed. Getting execution formalities wrong can create uncertainty about whether an agreement is binding, whether it takes effect as a deed, and whether key documents can be relied on later (for example by lenders, purchasers or auditors).

This collection gives you practical guidance on signing and executing documents correctly, including when you should use a deed, what witnessing requirements apply, and how to use signature blocks for different signatories such as individuals, companies, attorneys, partnerships and LLPs.

When Should You Use These Templates?

✅ you are about to sign an agreement and want to be confident it has been executed correctly
✅ you are not sure whether the document needs to be signed as a deed (and what that changes)
✅ a company is signing and you need the correct Companies Act signing method and signature block
✅ an attorney is signing under a power of attorney and you want the execution clause right
✅ a partnership or LLP is signing and you need the correct approach and signature wording
✅ you want to sign electronically and need practical guidance and suitable drafting
✅ you need a simple electronic signature clause to insert into an agreement

• Guidance Note: Formalities for Signing Deeds & Contracts
• Guidance Note: Electronic Signature of Deeds and Contracts
• Sample Template Electronic Signature Clause

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